It is landlocked and shares borders with Eritrea, Djibouti, Somalia, Kenya, South Sudan and Sudan. Ethiopia has more than 100 million inhabitants and is the most populous landlocked country on the continent. The biggest city and capital is called Addis Ababa.
There are currently more than 80 different ethnic groups and about as many languages are spoken. The most common are Oromo, Amharic, Somali and Tigrinya. The nation has natural contrasts with fertile and vast land in the west in combination with plenty of rivers and large forests. The highest point is Mount Ras Dashen which reaches over 4620 meters. Ethiopia is the country with the most amount of UNESCO World Heritage Sites on the African continent. Archeological discoveries in the form of the oldest skeletal remains of the first anatomically modern humans have been found in Ethiopia. The region is widely considered the starting point of the first modern humans when they set out for new places.
Danakil Depression
Danakil Depression, the hottest, driest and second-lowest point on earth offers harsh conditions yet beautiful scenery. Often compared to the surface of the moon, Danakil Depression encompasses active volcanoes, lava lakes and hot springs.
Lalibela
Ethiopia was one of the first countries to adopt Christianity and has
well-preserved churches dating back to the 7th century in a city called Lalibela.
Blue Nile Falls
The 45 meters high Blue Nile Falls is the most visited tourist attraction in all of Ethiopia. Although it is a tourist attraction, don’t mistake it for being a tourist trap. The Blue Nile falls offers beautiful sceneries and a walk along the blue Nile river.
Axum
For history lovers, Axum is a must-visit. Axum was from 400 BCE to the 10th century ruled by the trading and naval power, the Aksumite empire. Axum is currently protected by UNESCO for the historical values it offers.
Simien mountains
Simien Mountains, famous for its unique shapes, were created during extraordinary circumstances from lava outpourings. In addition to beautiful views, guided tours are offered by locals.
